What I experienced at the Utah Hockey Club's first game
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The hockey rink at the Delta Center is seen with the "NHL in Utah" logos appearing on the signage on April 19, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images
I went to my very first NHL game Tuesday night to watch the Utah Hockey Club versus the Chicago Blackhawks in the team's inaugural season opener at the Delta Center.
State of play: Prior to this, I had only been to one Utah Valley University men's ice hockey game (go Wolverines!) in college, so this was new territory for me.
- To double down on my inexperience, past attempts at ice skating have left me shaken and scared.
Nonetheless, here's what stood out from a fan perspective:
Cheap concessions
In an effort to give back to fans, Smith Entertainment Group announced last month that certain concessions at the Delta Center will be priced at just a few bucks for Utah Hockey Club and Jazz games.
- Hot dogs, popcorn, nachos and Farr's ice cream were $3 each and Dasani water bottles were $2.
- Vendors that sell these items include: Craft Shops, Tenders, Summit Snacks, and Farr's Ice Cream stations.
- "It's extremely family friendly and I can bring my granddaughter and nieces and nephews more often," hockey fan Tammie Aguilar told me about the affordable bites.
Yes, but: Everything else was priced as usual. A slice of Mozz pizza and a coke the size of a small trash can were about $20.
New merchandise
Expect long lines for merchandise, especially during the first few weeks of the team's debut. Fortunately, there are pop-up stores sprinkled throughout the arena so you may not have to wait as long.
- I couldn't leave the arena empty handed so I forked over $30 for a basic black t-shirt featuring the team's logo.
- It could appreciate in value if the team changes its name next year.
Worth your time: Why you should hold on to your Utah Hockey Club gear
A vibrant fan experience
Despite sitting near the back, I had a clear view of the rink and briefly forgot I was still in Utah after seeing fans down beers on the jumbotron.
- I knew I'd see a few fights on the rink, but didn't expect to see blood after Chicago's Connor Murphy toppled Utah's Sean Durzi to the ground during the second period.
The bottom line: The Utah Hockey Club didn't disappoint after their 5-2 victory against Chicago. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and it's worth going to a game, especially during the team's opening season.
- Single-game tickets are still available.